Save this place and discover nearby attractions with NextOnTrip
In the app you can add it to your favorites, see what else is worth visiting nearby on the map, and earn a badge for your visit.
The app is available for iPhone and Android.
About this place
Le Molard is a summit of roughly 1,750 m in the Vaud Alps above Montreux, canton of Vaud, Switzerland. It sits high over Lake Geneva and is a favourite day-hike objective for visitors to the Montreux Riviera. It is not a sharp, craggy peak but a broad grassy top, rewarded with an open view across the whole region.
Where is Le Molard?
The peak lies in the Swiss Prealps, in the ridge system between Les Avants, the Jaman pass and the Blonay area. In Switzerland "molard" is a word for a rounded rise, so several places share the name. This one rises above the municipality of Montreux, with the lake far below. Published heights vary: 1,752 m is the most common figure, while some trail maps show 1,720 to 1,730 m.
How do you get to Le Molard?
The classic route begins at the Auberge de la Cergniaulaz inn, and is often combined with neighbouring Le Folly. Montreux Riviera describes another option starting at Orgevaux: a mid-mountain route of about 3.6 km with around 500 m of climbing, which takes roughly 1.5 hours one way.
For a longer outing, a loop from Les Avants over the Soladier pass covers about 9.4 km with some 450 m of ascent, in around 3.5 hours. Other variants go via the Jaman pass along the ridge towards Cape au Moine. Paths are waymarked, but check an up-to-date map and conditions before setting out.
What can you see from the top?
The panorama is close to 360 degrees. Lake Geneva lies below, and in clear weather guides describe a range from the Jura to Mont Blanc. Wild bilberries grow on the grassy slopes below the summit, so August walkers can pick fruit on the way down.
When should you go?
Summer gives the easiest walking, and mornings usually have the clearest views. In winter the summit is done on snowshoes or ski touring skis, so check the avalanche forecast first. Le Molard is also a known road-bike climb: the last stretch of about 0.8 km is covered on foot from where the ride ends.
Frequently asked questions
Is Le Molard a difficult hike?
No. It is a mid-mountain route with no scrambling, though you need fitness for about 500 m of ascent and sturdy footwear.
How long does the climb take?
About 1.5 hours one way from Orgevaux, and around 3.5 hours for the full loop from Les Avants.
Where is the best starting point?
Most hikers start from the Auberge de la Cergniaulaz, Orgevaux or Les Avants, all close to Montreux.
Can you climb it in winter?
Yes, on snowshoes or ski touring skis, after checking snow conditions and the avalanche bulletin.
Nearby places
Earn badges for the places you visit
Download NextOnTrip, discover new places and check off your trails.